Señor Sisig was founded in 2010 by Evan Kidera and Gil Payumo, who transformed a reconditioned Chinese food truck into a Filipino street food sensation in San Francisco. Inspired by the success of Kogi Korean taco trucks in LA, they adapted the traditional Filipino dish sisig—using pork shoulder instead of pig head—into a modern, flavorful filling for tacos, burritos, and nachos. Leveraging social media and the popularity of local street food events, Señor Sisig quickly grew into a beloved Bay Area brand with multiple trucks and brick-and-mortar locations. Their fusion of Filipino flavors with American street food culture reflects San Francisco's dynamic culinary scene.

Located At 330 17th Street Oakland, CA 94612

As the only 100% plant-based coffee roastery and bakery in the industry today, Timeless provides a product and experience unlike anything else. Founded in 2012, the company’s mission has been to share its passion for great coffee and expose customers to the positive benefits of being and eating vegan. Timeless products are made in-house fresh daily. Subculture, community, social awareness, and a general interest in being and doing better are positive elements within the rich fabric of the Timeless employees and customers alike. The company acts as a good steward not only in the coffee and food industry but for animals, people, and the planet.

Downtown Cafe Located At 1700 Webster St Oakland, CA 94612

Pho 84 is renowned for its expertly crafted Vietnamese cuisine, offering a wide range of authentic dishes made from premium, fresh ingredients. The chefs specialize in signature pho dishes like Pho Chicken, Pho Bo Combo, and Tofu Pho, which are served quickly and freshly prepared to ensure a delightful dining experience. In addition to classic pho options, the restaurant offers specialties like Prawn Pho, Noodles ’n Pho Broth, and Hu Tieu Vegetable ’n Tofu, catering to a variety of tastes. The staff is committed to providing top-notch service and quality in every dish. With its emphasis on freshness and flavor, Pho 84 has become a favorite destination for Vietnamese food lovers looking for authentic, high-quality meals.

Located At 354 17th Street Oakland, CA 94612

Happy Burrito, located in Oakland, CA, is celebrated for its fresh, affordable, and flavorful Mexican cuisine. The restaurant is best known for its generously portioned burritos, which are filled with savory meats, creamy guacamole, cheese, beans, crisp lettuce, tomatoes, and more, all wrapped in warm tortillas. Each burrito is a satisfying meal, especially when topped with their popular hot sauce for an extra kick. Beyond burritos, Happy Burrito offers a wide range of classic Mexican dishes, including quesadillas, enchiladas, tacos, and nachos, making it a go-to spot for authentic and delicious Mexican food. Whether you're craving the signature Happy Burrito, the Super Burrito, or any other traditional dish, Happy Burrito delivers a hearty and tasty dining experience that keeps customers coming back for more.

Located At 1616 Webster Street Oakland, CA 94612

Take a few extra steps past Uptown and discover a true Oakland Chinatown gem — Draline Tong Herbs. This old-school herbal shop has been serving the community for decades with traditional remedies, healing herbs, and timeless Chinatown charm.

Step inside and it feels like another era — walls of herbal drawers, the smell of fresh teas and roots, and a neighborhood tradition that’s still alive today. Sometimes the best Oakland discoveries are just a little further down the block.

Golden Lotus is Oakland Chinatown’s vegan haven — serving up comforting Vietnamese classics, legendary pho, and feel-good flavors locals have loved for years. Cozy, casual, and full of heart, this longtime favorite proves vegan food can be seriously delicious.

Need a late-night spot in Oakland? Dragon Gate Oakland has you covered until 2AM with strong drinks, tasty small plates, karaoke vibes, and waterfront energy in Jack London Square. Perfect for after-hours bites, group hangs, or keeping the night going without breaking the bank.

Alma Bar Cocina is quickly becoming one of Oakland’s go-to spots for some of the best birria tacos in town. From rich, flavorful consommé to perfectly crispy tacos packed with tender meat and homemade tortillas, every bite hits exactly the way it should. Pair it with a great cocktail and lively atmosphere, and you’ve got the perfect Uptown Oakland stop for tacos, drinks, and good vibes.

Van Kleef is an Oakland legend and home to one of the city’s most famous Greyhounds. This old-school Uptown bar has been pouring strong drinks and serving classic charm for decades, with fresh grapefruit Greyhounds that locals and visitors swear by.

Though beloved owner Paul Van Kleef is no longer with us, his passion for bringing people together over great drinks and good company still lives on in every corner of the bar. Dark, cozy, and full of character, Van Kleef remains one of Oakland’s most unique and timeless gathering spots.

Hidden between Oakland’s busy city streets and freeways, Shapeshifters Café is a low-key gem tucked inside a beautiful old Victorian setting full of classic charm. With a relaxing patio, cozy café food, and laid-back neighborhood vibe, it’s the perfect spot for a casual meeting, quick coffee catch-up, or quiet work session away from the noise.

Along with great coffee, they also offer a thoughtful selection of loose-leaf teas that make it easy to slow down and stay awhile.